Though carbon monoxide poisoning is often talked about during winter months, the risk is still present at other times of the year, especially as threats of severe weather take place in the summer.

With power outages, people sometimes choose to use alternative power sources such as generators. When those are not properly ventilated, carbon monoxide can build up in the home.

Other sources of carbon monoxide can include gas or oil furnaces, water heaters, space heaters, clothes dryers, charcoal or gas grills, fireplaces, wood stoves and motor vehicles.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 400 Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning. More than 20,000 people visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized because of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless and invisible, and people often mistake symptoms for the flu. A person suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning can feel confused, dizzy and nauseated and have blurred vision, headaches, sleepiness, vomiting or weakness.

We encourage people to take precautions to protect themselves from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Properly vent and maintain all fuel-burning appliances, and don’t use an appliance inside that is intended for the outdoors.

Don’t forget to check to make sure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and replace batteries as needed.

Take the needed steps to protect your families.